The Mayor’s Office of Panama has officially created a permanent pedestrian-only zone in the city’s historic Casco Antiguo district. Officials enacted the new regulation through Municipal Decree 13-2025, which was formally published on November 26, 2025. This landmark decision aims to enhance safety, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable tourism in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The decree establishes specific boundaries for the “Casco Peatonal,” restricting vehicular access to authorized residents, emergency services, and delivery vehicles during designated hours. This move represents the city’s most significant effort to date in managing the growing congestion and preserving the fragile colonial-era infrastructure. The new rules will be enforced by municipal police and transit authorities starting immediately.
Official Rationale and Public Benefits
City officials emphasized that the pedestrian zone directly addresses longstanding concerns about vehicle density damaging the nearly 350-year-old neighborhood. The narrow, centuries-old streets were never designed to accommodate modern traffic volumes. This initiative prioritizes the experience of residents and the millions of tourists who visit the historic quarter annually.
“This decree is a fundamental step toward the recovery of public space for the enjoyment of all citizens and visitors,” said Mayor José Luis Fábrega. [Translated from Spanish] “We are giving back to the people one of the most important historical and cultural sites, ensuring its preservation for future generations.”
The administration’s analysis showed that limiting cars would significantly reduce vibration damage to historic structures. It also creates safer, more accessible pathways for walking tours and daily life. The new pedestrian zone covers the core area of Panama City‘s original settlement, founded in 1673 after the destruction of the original city.
Implementation and Logistics
Authorities have planned a phased implementation to help residents and businesses adapt. The Municipal Decree outlines a clear permitting process for those requiring vehicle access. Residents living within the zone, hotel guests, and commercial delivery vehicles can apply for special access passes. These passes will be strictly regulated and time-limited for deliveries.
Enforcement will rely on both physical barriers and digital monitoring. The city plans to install retractable bollards at key entry points, which will be managed by municipal personnel. A public awareness campaign will roll out in the coming weeks to inform both locals and tourists about the new traffic patterns and available parking alternatives on the periphery of the historic district.
“We are not prohibiting access, we are ordering it,” explained a director from the Municipal Transit Authority. [Translated from Spanish] “The goal is coexistence between preservation, residence, and commerce, but with a clear priority for people on foot.”
Local business owners have expressed cautious optimism about the changes. Many believe a more pleasant pedestrian environment will increase visitor dwell time and spending. The city has committed to monitoring economic impacts and adjusting the implementation as needed. This policy aligns with broader urban mobility goals that favor walking, cycling, and public transit over private car use in the city center.